Army

The Israelite army evolved from the tribal levy of the wilderness period—organized by tribe and family, marching in formation (Exodus 13:18)—into a professional standing force under David and Solomon, supplemented by foreign mercenaries (the Cherethites and Pelethites). The basic tactical unit was a division of a thousand men under a commander, with subdivisions of hundreds and fifties. During the monarchy, a royal bodyguard and a chariot force were added. The Mosaic law provided exemptions from service for the newly married, newly housed, newly planted, and the fearful (Deuteronomy 20:5–8). In prophetic and apocalyptic usage, the host of heaven and the armies of the living God designate angelic or divine forces.